Abstract

Adolescents increasingly navigate an interconnected digital environment where offline risk behaviors such as substance use, and gambling are mediated and amplified by online media. This qualitative study examined the lived experiences of Thai adolescents facing interconnected digital risks and evaluated stakeholder perspectives on school-based prevention initiatives. Data were collected through four focus group discussions and six in-depth interviews with school administrators, health and information and communication technology teachers (ICT teacher), guidance counsellors, general students, and identified at-risk (N = 32) in Bangkok, Thailand. Thematic analysis revealed four primary themes: (1) the clustering of digital risk behaviors (online gambling, vaping, legalized cannabis, and scam exposure); (2) the role of algorithmic marketing and peer channels in lowering perceived risk; (3) stakeholder preferences for interactive, game-based workshops and student-led digital media creation over passive lectures; and (4) operational and ethical prerequisites for integrating prevention programs into school routines without punitive sanctions. The findings demonstrated that enhancing multi-dimensional critical digital media literacy encompassing content evaluation, commercial intent analysis, and ethical digital citizenship—serves as a vital protective mechanism. Practical recommendations for school-based implementation and multidisciplinary collaboration are discussed.

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